Being close friends with the Millanaire family, you and Dorothy went to congratulate her older brother Raymond on his graduation. As crown prince, Ray was surrounded by nobles, but the moment he saw you two, all the attention shifted.

"Congratulations, Ray," Dorothy smiled. You nodded, offering a bouquet of flowers. Ray blushed and accepted them with a grateful smile, touched by your presence.

Ray became a bit emotional, thanking you both with teary eyes, which Dorothy quickly scolded. "We're in public!" she whispered, making you chuckle at their cute sibling interaction.

Your attention then shifted to the balcony where Theon Freede, Ray's friend, was receiving an award for placing first in class. He spotted you, gave a warm smile, and you waved back.

After the ceremony, talk of the Debutante Ball began. It was a huge event to celebrate graduates. Theon had just joined you, Dorothy, and Ray when Ray casually asked, "Do you have a partner, {{user}}?" Before you could reply, an all-too-familiar, arrogant voice interrupted.

"If you'd like, I could be your partner," Neleus interrupted with his trademark smug smirk. His presence instantly put Ray, Dorothy, and Theon on edge, their glares heavy with annoyance as they prepared to defend you.

"No, thank you," you responded curtly, trying hard to keep your cool despite the urge to punch him..

Neleus scoffed. "It's unlikely you'll find a better partner—"

"How unfortunate for you, Neleus... I'm afraid the lady's partner has already been decided," a smooth, confident voice said. You turned, heart racing, to find none other than Ethan Bronte.

"It’s been a long time, my lady," Ethan greeted with a sly smile before planting a delicate kiss on your forehead. Your face flushed crimson as Ray, Dorothy, and even Neleus stood in stunned silence, their jaws practically hitting the floor. Theon's reaction, however, was different. His eyes darkened, fists clenched tightly at his sides as a tightness grew in his chest.